People have a lot to say about millennials, the generation born between 1980 and 1997. They’re often painted as entitled and self-absorbed, and yet somehow volunteer more than previous generations. While characteristics vary based on who is giving the information, the one factor that many experts agree upon is the type of troubles millennials have seen.
Wars, incurable diseases, famines, droughts, floods, mass killings, extreme poverty, and political upheaval are the everyday events that have defined the millennials’ world. They are also the same topics referenced by Jesus when He spoke to His disciples, preparing them (and us) for the end times.
“And you will hear of wars and rumors of wars. See that you are not troubled; for all these things must come to pass, but the end is not yet. For nation will rise against nation, and kingdom against kingdom. And there will be famines, pestilences, and earthquakes in various places. All these are the beginning of sorrows.” (Matthew 24:6–8)
Even when we face problems, we can rest knowing that the words Jesus spoke to His disciples are true for us now.
Regardless of how many years, decades, or even centuries pass, the Bible and Jesus’ leadership remain relevant.
“Heaven and earth will pass away, but My words will by no means pass away.” (Matthew 24:35)
While addressing His disciples’ potential fears, Jesus exemplified not only the compassion of God, but also the expert leadership of the omniscient Ancient of Days.
While the disciples could have been overwhelmed by anxiety, worry, fear, and forthcoming persecution, Jesus confidently repositioned their attention away from these trials and fixed it on Himself.
“These things I have spoken to you, that in Me you may have peace. In the world you will have tribulation; but be of good cheer, I have overcome the world.” (John 16:33)
The same truth still resounds today. As we learn more about the One we follow, our confidence is built in Him, His character, and His leadership.
The One who overcame has made us overcomers (1 John 4:4). Despite the many changes and developments of human history that could cause us to fear, we can fix our eyes on Jesus, our Prince of Peace. With our gaze fixed on Him, we are less likely to fall into the trappings of fear or turn to earthly wisdom to establish order in the world—and within ourselves.
Repeatedly, Jesus made it clear that there was no need for us to fear. The One with all power and authority cares for us (1 Peter 5:7). We can have continuous peace based on the truth that God, who promises to finish what He starts, is the same yesterday, today, and forever. The One who created the universe with His words also directs our steps.
“Who has measured the waters in the hollow of His hand, measured heaven with a span and calculated the dust of the earth in a measure? Weighed the mountains in scales and the hills in a balance? Who has directed the Spirit of the Lord, or as His counselor has taught Him? With whom did He take counsel, and who instructed Him, and taught Him in the path of justice? Who taught Him knowledge, and showed Him the way of understanding?” (Isaiah 40:12–14)
Our good Shepherd knows all that we face. Whether it global trials or personal temptations, Jesus still confidently tells us today:
“You are of God, little children, and have overcome them, because He who is in you is greater than he who is in the world.” (1 John 4:4)
This is the truth He is proclaiming over all generations. Before there were the baby boomers, busters, or millennials, He was the Alpha and the Omega. Nothing has changed. He is still in control. In this hour, it is vital to connect with the heart of our capable Leader. God is inviting us to stand on His truth and exalt Him as Lord in every area of our lives.
